Last updated: 26 March 2020 at 10:00 pm
I know that over the last week you would have received many communications from different sources in relation to the current COVID-19 pandemic. The last thing I want to do at this time is to add further emails to your inbox. However, after reflection, I thought it important to write to you and let you know of our current planning and arrangements.
Firstly, I want to let you know that we have ensured that our own workplace is adopting safe work practices. We have had numerous communications and meetings with our own staff as we prepare for the possible consequences of the pandemic. Internally, the Partners are communicating throughout each day. I have told our staff that our own plans and polices are subject to change and subject to further advice and directions form the health authorities.
Everyone at Pigott Stinson has been reminded of, and is committed to doing, what we as individuals can do to help prevent the spread of the virus, especially through personal hygiene and social distancing. The Partners are doing all we can to ensure that we continue to provide legal services to our clients and provide a safe workplace for our employees.
I personally appreciate the challenges facing our clients. I also am very conscious that while members of our staff can work remotely, this is not an option for all of our clients, especially those working in hospitality.
So, in brief:
- Our office is now closed. Our staff are now working remotely, although this does not affect their work or your ability to contact them. Wherever your solicitor is working, they can continue to professionally look after your matter.
- Part of our planning has also involved use of technology to take the place of face to face meetings, to help “flatten the curve” by reducing person to person contact.
- However, we very much appreciate that legal practice will at times require face to face meetings and we want to assure you that when this is required we will be able to meet your needs, subject of course to any contrary Government directive.
- However, having regard to the current health directives, we will not be shaking hands and will be practicing social distancing. Please don’t be offended by this. I know this is very different to our previous, and my own, practice. But we must follow the advice of experts and the view of the Partners is that we are asking our staff to do this, so we practice what we preach.
- As we have done with our own workplace, we advise all our clients to follow all recommendations issued by the Federal and State health authorities.
If you have any enquiries about any current or new matters, or how we may be able to assist you at this time, please email or call me.
We are living in a time of great uncertainty so above all, stay safe.
Regards,
Ray Travers
Managing Partner
This publication is produced by Pigott Stinson. It is intended to provide general information only. The contents of this publication do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Formal legal advice should be sought from us in respect of the matters set out in this publication. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.